The role of the amplifier is incredible to improve the sound quality and volume of the car audio system. But what size amp for 2 12s would be great?
An amplifier with 500-watt RMS power and dual 4-ohm voice coils are fine for a 2-12 subwoofer. However, considering subwoofer impedance, specification, amp output, and wiring configuration is important to choose the right amp size for 2 12s.
In this guide, we will discuss what features should have in an amp to power 2-12 subs and the crucial consideration of choosing a 2-12″ subwoofer. If you are concerned about choosing an ideal amp for a 2-12 subwoofer, let’s solve it!
Contents
What Features Should You Have in An Amp to Power 2-12 Subs?
If you are thinking of powering 2 12 subs then follow the below mentioned features.
- Dual 4-ohm voice coils for enough electric current flow
- RMS power 500 watts for handling double subwoofer power
- Around 1000 watts peak power to handle the maximum power
- The frequency range should be between 26 Hz to 200 Hz
- Volume 1.25 cubic feet for sealed box and 2.0 cubic feet for ported box
- Ideal 5”-7/8” top mount depth and 88Db sensitivity level
If you are still concerned about the accurate amplifier for the car audio system, then try to match the subwoofer to the amp calculator.
How Can A Calculator Know What Size Amp for 2 12s Need?
Let’s follow a few simple steps to know the exact amp size for 2-12 subs.
Step 1:
Within the calculator, you can set the power rating, wattage and resistance values. So, enter the power wattage (W) and Impedance individually for each 12″ subwoofer. Use commas between two individual ratings to separate them.
Step 2:
Configure the subwoofer correctly. There will be two options in the calculator for you: parallel and series. Choose the method in which you want to connect the amplifier subwoofer.
Step 3:
Inspect the calculator result. It will show you the total Impedance and wattages of the subwoofers. At the same time, you will know the minimum and maximum wattage and Impedance for the required amp.
What Are The Core Considerations Before Choosing An Amp for 2 Subs?
If you are thinking about it, what amp do I need for my 2 12 subs? You need to know that there are some important things to consider when planning to use 2-subs together.
RMS Rating
Every subwoofer has its own RMS wattage rating. This rating indicates the power a subwoofer can handle. That means a subwoofer can’t get damaged with the rated RMS power.
However, it is essential to match the subwoofer RMS with the amplifier output power. So, choose such an amp that maintains the power supply as per the subwoofer RMS power. Subwoofer damages are more likely if you use a higher-output amplifier than the subwoofer-recommended RMS. If comparing between 2 10s and 2 12s subwoofers, 2 10s requires a lower power amplifier. Similarly, comparing between 4 8s and 2 12s subwoofers, the 4 8s can have a lower power wattage amplifier than 2 12s.
Impedance
Subwoofers are designed with an individual impedance rating, known as 2 ohms, 4 ohms, or 8 ohms. A technician recommends choosing an amp that can handle the subwoofer impedance ratings.
Therefore, check the amplifier-supported Impedance before purchasing. You will get the minimum and maximum impedance ratings from amp specifications or manual guides. So, adjust the amp power as per the subwoofer’s Impedance.
Wiring Configuration
What amp you should choose for double subs depends on the subwoofer wiring system. You can connect the subwoofer in parallel or series systems. However, these connections have an impact on the impedance load of 2-subs. Both parallel and series connections can produce individual loads.
For example, if you were a 2-ohm subwoofer in parallel connection, it would produce 2 ohm loads. On the other hand, this produced load will be 8 ohms when you wire the subwoofers in a series connection. So, consider your preferred wiring system before choosing an amp. Otherwise, you can’t adjust the amp power with the 2-12 subs.
Available Space
Car amplifiers are available in multiple sizes, so if your car has enough space to place your preferred size amp. The best practice is to choose an exact space in the car to place amp.
Car Electrical System
Is your car able to provide the required power for your chosen sub’s amp? A car should have enough power to support the amp operating. You can use alternators and batteries to upgrade the car’s electrical system. Generally, using a high-performance amp requires an upgraded car electric system.
Final Notes
So, we hope you got the answer of “what size amp for 2 12s?” It depends on a few factors we have discussed above. However, on average, 4-ohm voice coils, 500 RMS wattage, and 1000 watts peak power are good enough for an amp to run a 2-12″ subwoofers.
Must consider RMS rating, impedance rating, subwoofer wiring configuration and amplifier size before purchasing one for double subs. Do not choose an amp for 2 12s with more ratings than subs permitted ratings. Otherwise, the subwoofers may be damaged.
